Panasonic ZS1 vs Pentax E90

Let's take a deeper look at the Panasonic ZS1 versus Pentax E90, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Panasonic and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the ZS1 (10MP) and the E90 (10MP) is fairly comparable but the ZS1 (1/2.5") and E90 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor dimensions.

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The ZS1 was introduced 8 months earlier than the E90 and they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a detailed comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the ZS1 matches up versus the E90 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1 and Pentax Optio E90. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic ZS1 Gallery and Pentax E90 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera regularly, you will want to take into account its weight and volume. The Panasonic ZS1 provides outside measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax E90 has sizing of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") and a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic ZS1 versus Pentax E90 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the ZS1 against the E90.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ZS1 and E90 is 91 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing purely by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph underneath might give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the ZS1 and E90.

Clearly, both the cameras come with the identical megapixel count but not the same sensor sizing. The ZS1 has got the smaller sensor which will make getting shallow DOF more difficult. The older ZS1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.